Top 10 Best Angle Grinders for Metal Work

An angle grinder is an essential tool in a metalworking workshop. Though there are various tools for cutting metal, a right angle grinder would be the right choice for metal work.

The best angle grinder for metal work should be both powerful and able to work precisely.

When you are looking for an angle grinder to cut steel or other metal, you should look for a high amp motor, high-speed RPMs, and a comfortable design.

These different factors will make it easier to complete metal work applications in a workshop or a job site.

Thanks to their ability to switch from one accessory to another. Based on your needs, you can also run the tool on different wheels.

Top Angle Grinders for Metal Work

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10 Best Angle Grinders for Metal Work:

1. DEWALT DWE402 4-1/2-Inch Paddle Switch Angle Grinder

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Incredible power to weight and size ratio sets the DEWALT DWE402 Angle Grinder Tool apart from many other models. The angle grinder features exceptional power and control, with a variety of special innovations built into its design.

There is a Dust Ejection System that provides more durability to the motor. This system is designed to push out any damaging debris that tries to come into the inner parts.

The brushes are also a special oversized type that last two times longer. The spiral bevel gears also ensure a longer transmission life.

The angle grinder for metal work is easy to use. The guard has a one-touch design that allows the user to rotate it 360 degrees without any tools. The wheel has a quick-change release button so you can remove and replace discs without tools, too.

A more ergonomic side handle lets you be more precise on projects. The gripping surface is very small on the handle, too. You can have the most comfort while using this tool.

Pros

• Oversized brushes equal longer brush life
• One-touch guard rotation
• Dust ejection system prevent dust build-up and damage
• Quick-change wheel allows for tool free wheel removal
• Auto-off brushes have an automatic shutdown feature
• Spiral bevel gear provides longer transmission life

Cons

• A heavier tool for long-term use
• Paddle switch is sometimes hard to operate

2. Makita 9557PBX1 Metal Work Angle Grinder

[amazon fields=”B0010DHFTK” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2″ Metal Work Angle Grinder”]

With its convenient carrying and storage case, the Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2″ Angle Grinder is ready to go with you anywhere. This angle grinder for metal work is powerful and durable.

It has a strong motor that can deliver up to 11,000 RPM at its highest output. It is a versatile choice if you plan on cutting, grinding, or polishing metal of any kind.

The seals have a labyrinth-style construction to prevent dust from getting into the motor to damage it. Dust and debris that gets in the motor and bearings may decrease the overall tool life.

A zig-zag varnish acts as another way to protect against abrasion from airborne debris.

The coil wires are made to be a thicker design to reduce the heat and energy loss during use. The side handle can be placed on the right or left side depending on the job and your preference.

This grinder for metal has a lot of smooth power. The soft-start feature allows the user to turn this tool on quickly without issues.

Make quick adjustments with the tool-less wheel guard design and hit the lock-on/lock-off feature to use the tool continuously.

Dual ball bearings let you transfer power to the gears as efficiently as possible. The result is accurate cutting, grinding, and polishing at any time.

Pros

• Labyrinth construction seals and protects motor
• Extra-large paddle switch
• Thicker coil wires reduce heat
• Gear housing easily rotatable
• Soft start for smoother start-ups
• Tool-less wheel guard provides easy clamping

Cons

• Can run too hot at times
• A bit heavy for long-term use

3. Metabo G12SR4 6.2-Amp Lightweight Angle Grinder

[amazon fields=”B07L21GNHL” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Metabo G12SR4 6.2-Amp Lightweight Angle Grinder”]

The Metabo HPT Angle Grinder is a tough and hardy angle grinder for metal work. With a 6.2 AMP motor, it is easy to get through tough grinding and polishing jobs with it. You can use this angle grinder for long periods without worrying about overloading or burning out the tool.

It comes outfitted with a left-mounted side switch. This switch lets you turn it off immediately in the case of an emergency. Simply flip the switch to turn the machine off at once.

This grinder for metal work also has a spindle lock feature on the top. This lock design makes it much easier to switch out accessories and discs when you need to during a project.

If you want to remove a disc or accessory, you can press the spindle lock on the side of the head for an easy switch. This switch may come in handy if you maneuver it into tight areas with its low-profile gearcase.

A side handle makes this tool easier to control despite its moderate weight. You can remove the side handle if you want to. It can be attached on either the right or left side of the tool.

It is also canted forward to help better maneuver the tool where you want it to go. The smaller grips on the handle also help provide more control.

The entire angle grinder, including its cord and several accessories, fits into a convenient storage case. Take it anywhere with the handle or store it away in the garage when you are not using it.

Pros

• Comes with a 5-year warranty
• Left-mounted slide switch
• Quick accessory changes with spindle lock
• Low-profile gear case
• Lightweight for greater control
• Smaller grip helps reduce fatigue

Cons

• Does not come with tool free guard adjustment
• Must be near plugin to use

4. Bosch 1375A 4-1/2-Inch Metalworking Angle Grinder

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Handle all sizes and types of metal with the Bosch 1375A 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder. Every inch of this grinder for metal comes with features added for easier operation. It has moderate power and can reach speeds up to 11,000 RPM with no load.

Plus, it has a motor designed with a small field diameter. You can cut or grinder metal with more precision and ease. A burst-protection guard ensures user safety and security.

This is an exceptionally durable angle grinder for metal work that is also lightweight and compact. It is coated in epoxy so that abrasive materials do no damage. There is also a sealed switch so that debris does not enter that delicate mechanism.

A side handle allows you to control the direction of the tool. You can even place it on either side to fit your needs. The top handle is also ergonomically designed to provide better control during a project.

Another point of convenience is the Service Minder Brush System. This system is a unique way to monitor brush life. The tool itself will shut off if maintenance is necessary.

Pros

• Designed with small field diameter for easier operation
• Comes with Service Minder Brush System
• Tool is coated with epoxy to prevent debris damage
• Top handle is placed to provide more comfort
• Lock-on side switch allows for easy continuous operation
• Side handle allows for two positions

Cons

• Does not come with variable speed settings
• Needs plug in to operate

5. AVID POWER 7.5-Amp 4-1/2 inch Auxiliary Handle Angle Grinder 

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The AVID POWER Angle Grinder for metal work is a tool that combines fantastic power into one slim, lightweight package. It can produce a no-load speed of 11,000 RPM and handle very demanding projects.

The angle grinder also arrives with several accessories and tools you need to get started immediately.

The ergonomic design and convenient features of this grinder for metal make it easy to get to work on all types of applications.

You can maneuver the compact body of this tool with the use of its adjustable rubber handle. And the spindle lock design of the disc grinder allows you to exchange discs without taking up too much time.

And you can worry less about safety with the protective cover and safety trigger features. The protective cover prevents debris and sparks from metal work from hitting the user.

The safety trigger is a way to stop the machine completely to avoid an accident. This trigger is essential in case of emergencies or power outages.

Pros

• Comes with several accessories
• Protective cover catches sparks and metal chips
• Ergonomic design is slim and lightweight
• Spindle lock lets you quickly change wheels
• Design allows for fast heat dissipation
• Safety trigger lets you turn off quickly in an emergency

Cons

• Does not come with case
• Difficult to use on/off switch

6. DEWALT DWE4012 7-Amp Paddle Switch Grinder for Metal Work

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The DEWALT DWE4012 4-1/2-inch angle grinder tool has a maximum speed of 12,000 RPM and features higher overload protection than average.

The side handle is removable on this tool, but can also be positioned on either side of the grinder. The position you choose can depend on how comfortable it is when you operate it. The user can have better control this way, too.

Overall, the tool has an ergonomic design. It is slim enough to fit in tight areas, which makes it an ideal angle grinder for metal work. The gear case has a jam-pot style that increases the durability of the tool.

It is low-profile, which means you can maneuver it into tight spaces. This model is also extremely lightweight and will not cause a user a lot of fatigue with continuous use.

To adjust the guard on this grinder for metal, you only need to rotate it. The one-touch guard means that you avoid losing precious work time on your project as you are fiddling with the accessories.

And you can replace the spanner wrench you need to use this tool with a hex wrench.

Pros

• One-touch guard for easy, single action adjustments
• 2-position removable side handle
• Higher overload protection
• Low profile gear case for durability
• Quick-change wheel release mechanism
• Ergonomic body design

Cons

• Paddle switch safety sometimes hard to engage
• Does not have capability for 7 inch wheels

7. Makita GA7021 AC/DC Switch Metal Work Angle Grinder 

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When it comes to a great angle grinder for metal work, the Makita GA7021 -inch Angle Grinder is one of the better options. This tool offers superb power with a 15 AMP motor and delivers up to 6,600 RPM during a project.

You can knock out heavy-duty, industrial work with this type of grinder for metal. This grinder is also handy for other jobs like tile cutting, grinding concrete, etc.

There is a rear trigger switch outfitted with a lock-on feature, which allows the operator to keep the tool running continuously.

The angle grinder for metal work also features a lot of handy comfort and control aspects to its design. It has a convenient side handle that can be positioned in three different places on the grinder. A large rubber tool rest helps protect the rest of your workpiece from damage.

Multiple areas of the design ensure that this tool will outlast other models. It has a zig-zag style varnish that protects the motor from dust and debris.

A labyrinth-style construction also protects the motor from building up damaging debris from the air.

All of the inner workings, including the gears and bearings, have a longer tool life. And when you need to replace the brushes, you can easily access them externally for quick service.

Pros

• Easy-to-use large trigger switch for continuous use
• Spiral bevel gears allow for smoother rotations
• Trigger lock for continuous use
• Zig-zag varnish protects armature coils
• Externally accessible brushes for easy replacement
• Rubber tool rest protects work piece

Cons

• Does not come with carrying case
• Very heavy for continuous use

8. PORTER-CABLE 4-1/2-Inch, 7.5-Amp Angle Grinder for Metal

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Small, but powerful, the PORTER-CABLE PC750AG Metal Work Angle Grinder is an excellent choice for a workshop or job site. It has an efficient and durable 7.5 AMP motor and is compatible with the tools you need for metal work.

This angle grinder for metal work is designed with cast metal gear housing. It will last longer than other models, even when taken through messy job sites.

If you need to adjust the grip of the side handle to suit a different application, you can choose three positions. The handle has a soft grip design to improve the user’s overall control and precision.

Thanks to a spindle lock on this metal angle grinder, you can avoid slowing down during a job. If you press it, you can quickly change out a wheel or an accessory for a new one. The guard is also tool-free, which means you can adjust it as it pleases your comfort.

There is also an on/off trigger for more safety during operation. It is situated in an accessible location and can be pressed while wearing thick work gloves.

Pros

• Soft grip handle for user comfort
• 3-position adjustable side handle
• Spindle lock for single wrench changes
• Cast-metal gearbox for longevity
• Easily accessible on/off trigger switch
• 3-year limited warranty and 1-year free service

Cons

• Must use near a plug in
• Does not have capability for larger wheels

9. Ryobi 10,400 RPM Brushless 4-1/2″ Grinder and Metal Cutter

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Convenience and control characterize the Ryobi P423 Grinder and Metal Cutter. This metal angle grinder is not powered by electricity. Instead, it uses an 18V battery to provide excellent power to the motor.

The 18V battery used in this Ryobi model is the same for a variety of Ryobi metal grinding tools.

With its three-position side handle, you can convert this angle grinder for metal work to suit your needs. It allows the user to have optimal leverage over this powerful tool. This handle is made of plastic and designed with a comfortable grip.

The rubber over mold on the grip keeps the friction constant between your hand and the tool. As a result, you can work more precisely even when working in humid or damp conditions.

And when you want to adjust the guard, you do not need to use tools. The tool can be adjusted to a different angle and depth with the touch of a hand. A simple button controls those settings to make it easier for you to get on with the project.

Pros

• Rubber overmold covers grip for more precise work
• 3 position side handle
• Spanner wrench stored on grinder for easy disc replacement
• Tool-free guard adjustments
• Do not need to be near power source
• Battery compatible with other Ryobi tools

Cons

• Must charge batteries to use
• On-board wrench can fall out of storage slot

10. DEWALT One-Touch Guard 4-1/2 -Inch Metalwork Angle Grinder

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Experience ample power and speed with this angle grinder for metal work. This tool can handle all of your heavy-duty metal applications, including cutting, grinding, and polishing. It has superior overload protection, which means you can use it to its maximum potential.

With a simple touch of a button, you can adjust the guard. Instead of bringing in tools and wasting time, you can get back to work quickly.

This one-touch guard feature goes hand-in-hand with the hex wrench. Instead of a spanner wrench, you can use a commonly available hex wrench for maintaining this grinder for metal work.

On this metal work angle grinder, you can adjust the side handle to be on the left or the right side. This can improve the control the operator has during a job. The slim body design allows for even more comfort because it is not bulky or unwieldy.

This tool is also very versatile, with a 5/8-inch-to-11-inch spindle thread. This thread is capable of working with various types of 4-1/2-inch accessories.

Pros

• Has a higher overload protection
• Hex wrench instead of spanner wrench for tool changes
• One-touch guard eliminates need for tools
• Ergonomic body design for more comfort
• 2-position removable side handle
• Low-profile, jam-pot gear case design

Cons

• Does not come with variable speed settings
• Does not come with automatic shutdown feature

Things to Consider Before Buying

Power

As the wheel size increases, an angle grinder for cutting metal will have a more powerful motor. A larger motor can be useful for very large or heavy-duty metal work tasks.

Detailed metal work projects require a smaller wheel, which usually means less motor power.

Disc Size

The size of the disc on your angle grinder depends on the application. A lot of metal work involves cutting and grinding large pieces of metal. You may need a larger size disc to cut through certain types of metal.

Speed

Speed on angle grinders is measured as revolutions per minute (RPM). A tool that can reach a high RPM under load will be able to work efficiently.

Cutting and grinding metal is a heavy-duty task, which means you need the disc to spin at a fast speed. You can consider a variable speed angle grinder for multitasking.

Safety

The guards on a metalwork angle grinder should be durable enough to direct sparks and debris away from the user. Other safety features include on/off switches that can be used during an emergency.

Power-to-Weight Ratio

The power-to-weight ratio relates to how much reliable power a tool can offer compared to its weight. The better this ratio is, the more consistent speeds you can reach with your tool.

An angle grinder to cut steel needs to be capable of lots of power for continuous use.

Brushes

If you have a corded model, it probably has brushes. Those brushes need to be replaced periodically. Lots of heavy-duty work will wear down the brushes, including metal work.

Seek out grinders that make brush servicing easy and quick.

Comfort and Control

Having control of the angle grinder for workshop is essential to a well-done job. Make sure that the tool is comfortable enough to use for long periods. Adjustable handles and rubber grips are two features to seek.

Gear Greasing

Gear greasing on an angle grinder model needs to be high-quality. If you use it a lot for metal work, check to ensure the gears remain greased. Continuous use can wear down gears.

Power Source

There are several power source options for metal work angle grinder. Battery-powered, cordless models are generally just as powerful.

However, their overall performance may be lacking compared to electric, corded models or pneumatic models. If you work in a workshop, you should be close enough to a plug-in to make a corded model work for metal work tasks.

Price

You can spend over $100 on a top rated angle grinder for metal. But price does not necessarily mean that it will come with the features and specifications that you need for your projects.

Make sure that the model you choose can handle the applications you will use it for, such as cutting or grinding metal welds.

Warranties

A warranty is a nice guarantee for an angle grinder tool. If you are unfamiliar with a brand, it may be nice to have a warranty for at least 1 year to help in case of an issue.

What is Metal Work?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlFsoNVeVx8

Metal work is a process people use to form and shape metals. They can transform metal into different objects, tools, structures, and parts. Metal working includes forming, cutting, and joining tasks.

A metal angle grinder is one of the most important tools used with metal work. Those involved with this type of work use a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, iron, bronze, and more.

Cutting Metal Using an Angle Grinder

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBnJdaiQ73M

Step 1: Assemble the Required Tools

You will require the following tools;

• The metal to cut
• Angle grinder
• Power source or outlet
• Metal disc
• Earmuff
• C-clamp
• Chalk
• Measurement tool
• 40-grit flapper
• Safety boots
• Eye goggles
• Gloves

Step 2: Prepare the Grinder

After collecting everything you require in the cutting process, you need to make the grinder ready. Start choosing the right cutting disc blade. It depends on the metal type to cut. Mostly, cutting disc blades with standard-width cut various metal types.

Diamond-edged blades are suitable for extra-dense metal. After installing the ideal disc, mark out the intended line to cut. You will also need to do this with the metal piece you want to cut through directly.

The best way to do this is by using a measurement tool to measure the correct lines and chalk to mark them out. You may need to cut a design on the metal piece or a straight line. Whichever the case, ensure to mark the outline correctly.

It’s not hard to cut out a straight line. You only need to mark from end to end using a linear object like a ruler and chalk. Then cut through the marked-out line without straying.

The metal’s corners may be tricky to cut. For excellent results on such areas, cut slightly above the marked line.

Highlighting the entire pattern and etching the stretch areas using an awl will help you cut out complicated patterns such as zigzags and curves.

Remember to unplug the grinder from the socket or power source. Then ensure all the parts are appropriately fixed and fastened.

Step 3: Secure the Metal Piece

After setting up your grinder ready for cutting, you will need to prepare the metal piece to perform the process. The best way to secure the metal is by clamping it down.

You shouldn’t forget this step because unsecured metal scoots around when cutting and can be dangerous. It may slip and cut your hand or leg.

A large and heavy metal sheet may not need clamping, but it’s a must for rebar and a loose sheet of metal. Before cutting, use a C-clamp to secure your regular piece of metal.

Remember, you need to mark out where to cut on the metal before clamping.

Step 4: Put on the Grinder and Begin Cutting

When your metal is ready and safe for cutting, plug the grinder into a power source and put it on. As a beginner, you may need to hold the tool firmly as its vibration may shock you.

Then give it some time for the active blade to acquire full speed. Carefully lower the rotating edge at the beginning of the marked line for cutting.

You will need to apply some pressure at this point. Don’t get scared when you see flying metal debris and sparks. It gets expected when the blade starts cutting your piece of metal.

While placing the edge on the intended cutting line, ensure you exert enough force to make the starting cut.

Then continue working out the cut through the marked outline to the end. You should be through within one or two passes when cutting a thin metal sheet.

Thicker metal pieces such as rebar require approximately three to four passes to have them cleave apart.

It is essential to maintain the blade on the outline. Otherwise, you may end up with an offline rev or none precise cuts. When the grinder starts slowing down, don’t stop cutting. Move it back and forth on the cutting line until you finish.

Step 5: Wind up the Cutting

Turn off the grinder immediately after you finish cutting the metal. Ensure you also switch off its power source and plug it out. A faulty switch may still allow power to pass through even when put off. Such a case can be dangerous because you may hurt yourself with a grinder.

After cutting the metal, the cut edges are usually very sharp. Avoid touching them, for you can get cut. Then remove the disc blade and insert a 40-grit flapper. Return the plug into the power source and switch it on. Then put on the grinder.

Run the 40-grit flapper onto the metal’s sharp edges until they become smooth. Do not rush the process. Do it slowly for optimal results. Please switch off the grinder and unplug it from the power source after use. Voila! You have successfully cut your metal using an angle grinder.

It is important to note that you may not get it the first time you try cutting metal using an angle grinder. It shouldn’t make you worry because practice makes perfect.

If you love doing things with your hands, cutting metal using this tool is an excellent DIY home project. Like other electrical tools, an angle grinder may be harmful if mishandled.

Best Technique to Hold an Angle Grinder While Cleaning Metal

There is a proper way to hold a metal angle grinder while cleaning a metal object or piece. Usually, you will use a wire brush to clean away rust and old paint. Wire wheels get into little nooks that other tools cannot reach.

Hold the wire brush away from the edge of the object. The spinning wheel should move away from that edge but never towards it.

A wire brush can easily catch on edges. If an angle grinder catches on the edge of a piece of metal, it may kick back at the user.

FAQs

1. How Thick of Metal can you Cut with an Angle Grinder?

A metal work angle grinder can cut through different types of metal with ease. The thickness you can cut through depends on the type of metal and the size of your electric metal grinder.

If you have a 125mm angle grinder, you would need a 1-1.016 mm thick disc to cut through metal.

2. What is a Good Amp for Metal Cutting Angle Grinder?

A good amp for an angle grinder for metal work is at least 6 AMP. It needs to have a powerful motor to handle high speeds. The high RPM helps create enough power to cut through a metal of different thicknesses.

3. Does Grinding Metal Weaken it?

During metal work, a significant task is welding together pieces of metal. Many people then use an angle grinder for welding to grinder down the welds.

This process can make the welds look neater, but it can weaken the overall structure of the metal.

4. How can I Cut Metal without a Grinder?

There are several options to cut metal if you do not have an angle grinder for cutting metal. A high-tension hacksaw is a simple option, but it requires more physical labor.

A circular saw can work in a pinch on some types of metal. It is still recommended to use an angle grinder to cut steel.

Final Thoughts

An excellent angle grinder to cut steel or grinding different metals needs to be well-rounded. The DEWALT DWE402 Angle Grinder combines durable construction and a powerful motor into one fantastic angle grinder for cutting metal.

It is one of the best options because it offers longer brush life, transmission life, and overall too life. Anyone can use this tool to cut, grind or clean metal without problems.

A metal work angle grinder needs to be strong enough to cut through thick materials but precise enough to make clean cuts.

The angle grinder is one of the best angle grinders for metal work. It features a design that allows the user to hold it comfortably and control its aim.